Blue Jackets goaltender Steve Mason was scheduled to have his first night off on Tuesday, but a groin injury to backup Curtis Sanford put him in net for another loss.
Like the Jackets (0-5-1), Mason is winless. He ranks 34th in save percentage (.883) and 33rd in goals-against average (3.34). But he said he liked much of what took place in front of him during a 3-2 loss to the Dallas Stars.
"We did a lot of good things," Mason said. "Hopefully, that carries over into Detroit (on Friday)."
Coach Scott Arniel said he has not lost confidence in Mason, instead pointing to the Jackets' offense. They have scored two goals in every game and are tied for 25th in scoring.
"When you're scoring two goals a game, it doesn't matter which goaltender is in there," Arniel said. "You're putting an awful lot of pressure on those guys. Yes, Steve can be better. But Steve is also giving us a chance each night to win."